New Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge exceeds 50,000 vehicles in daily traffic volume

The new Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge is already reshaping transportation, commerce and daily life in Guyana, with average traffic volumes now exceeding 50,000 vehicles per day since its commissioning in October. The figures point to both pent-up demand and the transformational impact of modern infrastructure on national connectivity, according to Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Madanlall Ramraj.
Speaking on the Government’s broader infrastructure agenda, Minister Ramraj stressed that the programme goes far beyond concrete and steel, describing it as a people-centred vision aimed at inclusive national development.
“This agenda is not simply about roads, bridges, ports or airstrips,” Ramraj said. “It is about connecting communities to markets, families to opportunities, farmers to buyers, and young people to a future filled with possibility. From the busiest urban corridors to the most remote inland villages, the President’s vision is anchored in one principle – no one must be left behind.”
He explained that infrastructure, under this vision, is meant to deliver visible and measurable improvements to everyday life. “Infrastructure in this vision is not abstract. It is tangible. It is progress you can see, touch, drive on, and rely on every single day,” the Minister said.
Highlighting the national impact, Ramraj noted that each project plays a specific role in strengthening social and economic links across the country. “Every kilometre of road shortens travel time. Every bridge improves safety. Every port, stelling and airstrip expands access to healthcare, education and economic opportunity,” he stated.
As Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Ramraj said his responsibility is not only to oversee construction but also to ensure that projects translate into real benefits for citizens. “Our success is not measured merely in projects completed, but in better lives, stronger communities and a more connected Guyana,” he said.
Nowhere, he noted, is that impact clearer than with the completion of the US$262M fixed, high-span cable-stayed Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge, which replaced the ageing Demerara Harbour Bridge and fundamentally changed movement between Regions Three and Four.
“Congestion has eased. Safety has improved. Commerce now flows without interruption,” Ramraj said. “Since commissioning, average daily traffic volumes have exceeded 50,000 vehicles per day, reflecting both latent demand and improved network efficiency.”
According to the Minister, the bridge is already delivering measurable results, including reduced travel times, smoother logistics, and long-term resilience for national and regional commerce. He also pointed to the removal of tolls as a significant financial relief for commuters.
“During a recent visit to Region Three, one resident shared something that stayed with me,” Ramraj recounted. “Since the bridge became toll-free, he calculated that he has saved over $84,000 in transportation costs in just the last three months. That is money now going back into his household – towards groceries, school expenses and daily living. That is what infrastructure does when it is people-centred.”
Beyond the river crossing, Ramraj outlined several major road projects that are further strengthening national connectivity. The 23.5-kilometre (km) East Bank Demerara Road project, he said, has delivered a modern transport corridor designed for all users.
“With sidewalks, cycle lanes, LED lighting and enhanced safety features, this is infrastructure that respects pedestrians, cyclists, motorists and businesses alike, while supporting commercial growth along the corridor,” he explained.
In Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), the upgrade of the 80-km highway, coupled with the construction of 16 km of bypass roads, has significantly boosted agricultural productivity and regional trade. “Farmers are moving produce faster, spoilage has declined, and trade with Suriname continues to expand,” the Minister said.
Major improvements have also been completed inland, including the reconstruction of the 72.43-km Linden–Soesdyke Highway into a modern, resilient transport corridor. Ramraj noted that proper drainage, lighting, roundabouts and pedestrian bridges have made travel safer and more predictable while accommodating growing traffic volumes.
Further north, the full reconstruction of the 121.2-km Linden-to-Mabura Hill Road has restored reliable access for remote communities. The upgraded roadway features a 7.2-metre (m) carriageway with 2.4-m shoulders on each side.
“This investment has strengthened mining and forestry operations, supported tourism, and ensured residents can reach education and healthcare services without fear of isolation,” Ramraj said.
He concluded that the scale and scope of the current infrastructure drive underscore the Government’s commitment to national connectivity as the foundation of development. “National development requires national connectivity, and this Government has delivered decisively,” Ramraj said, adding that the daily use of these assets by tens of thousands of Guyanese is the clearest proof of their value.